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Unearthing Ancient History in Tuscany

Expedition Briefing

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The Research

Populonia is one of the most important active archaeological sites in Italy. From 900 BCE to 100 CE, it served as the center of iron smelting and trade in the Mediterranean. Iron was the city’s economic base and source of wealth. The transfer of the city from Etruscan to Roman rule (at about 250 or 200 BCE) did not halt its metalworking activities; iron exports supported Roman expansion in Africa, and the Augustan ruling class (50 BCE to 50 CE) had important economic interests in the area’s industrial production and commerce.

To reconstruct the economic and social history of the city of Populonia, we must understand when iron smelting took place, how society in the city formed around iron smelting activities, the trade routes, and the people who lived and worked in the harbor, mines, and iron-smelting industry.

To achieve these goals, our project aims to continue excavating at the Roman settlement on Poggio del Molino (“Windmill Hill”), the area's most interesting Roman late-republican and imperial site. Poggio del Molino is also the first Park of Shared Archaeology in Italy. 

On the north side of the Baratti Gulf, the Settlement of Poggio del Molino is, so far, the most significant site to help us reconstruct the history of Populonia between the 2nd century BCE and the 5th century CE. Focusing the research at Poggio del Molino settlement gives us extraordinary evidence about a dark period in Populonia history. 

The excavation of the Roman settlement of Poggio del Molino, the only example of a Roman fortress, farm, and villa in the territory of Populonia systematically investigated, is conducted under the scientific direction of the Aglaia Foundation with Carolina Megale Ph.D. (in agreement with Municipality of Piombino) and the professionals of the Archeodig Project.

The archaeological site extends over the northern and eastern slopes of a promontory that acts as a watershed between the beach of Rimigliano in the north, the Gulf of Baratti to the south, and the northern boundary of the town of Piombino (Livorno).

The Roman structures are located on a plateau about 20 meters above sea level that dominates the stretch of sea between San Vicenzo and the Isle of Elba in the west and the Metalliferous Hills and the plains of Campiglia lagoon to the east.

During the 2nd century BCE, the northern end of the promontory was occupied by a fortified building positioned to defend the territory of Populonia from pirate attacks. Thanks to contemporary sources we know that between the 2nd and 1st centuries BCE, piracy was prolific on the Mediterranean coasts and sea. The fortress’ strategic position allowed control of most of the Tyrrhenian Sea routes, the access to the channel that connects the sea to the lake of Rimigliano, and the southern territory of Populonia.

The building, with a rectangular plan of about 55 x 56 meters, has been investigated in the southeast sector, organized around a porch, where evidence of ironworking has been uncovered. Along the perimeter wall, we have identified two defensive towers erected adjacent to the two entrances of the settlement and a watchtower that allowed communication with Populonia. In 67 BCE, following the issuance of the Lex Gabinia, Gneo Pompeo took command of the war against the pirates of the Mediterranean Sea, over which, in just four months, he reported a total victory.

In the first half of the 1st century BCE, without the threat of pirates, the building was repurposed as a farm with an adjoining 'cetaria', or small home-based factory, producing 'garum' (fish sauce), equipped with pools for soaking the fish, which we can still see today.

Around the middle of the 2nd century CE, after a thorough renovation, the building took on the characteristics of a maritime villa, which was later destroyed around the end of the 3rd century CE, probably by an earthquake. The villa was organized around an open area, set out as a garden, and exploited the same two accesses used in the earlier phases. The western entrance gave access to the main living area (cubicula and dining rooms), decorated with mosaics and frescoes, and to the bath complex via a corridor overlooking the sea. The slave quarters, which are known as the kitchen and other utility rooms, still under excavation, were accessed via the eastern entrance.

 In the 4th century, after the destruction, the eastern sector of the complex was reoccupied and used for activities connected with ironworking. In addition to a large amount of iron slag and hematite, a furnace connected with a forge has been documented.

Even in the 5th century, the site experienced a significant phase of inhabitation connected with the presence of a gathering place, probably linked to early Christian worship, and of a tomb set in a wall of the villa ruins.

Today, the top of the hill is occupied by the beautiful Villa del Barone, built in 1923 by Baron Luigi De Stefano and Assunta Vanni Desideri, the daughter of Eugenio. From a paper of the 16th century, the "Bandita di Porto Baratti," and other archival documents, we know that the Poggio owes its name to the mill which was a part of Torre Nuova ("Torre Nuova del Molino"), the building of coastal defense and a lookout built in the early sixteenth century by Cosimo I de' Medici, on the slopes of the promontory.

Unearthing Ancient History in Tuscany

How You Will Help

You will help us reconstruct the area’s complex past as fully as possible. All teams will excavate the Roman settlement of Poggio del Molino. If weather prevents work outside, you’ll help reconstruct the shapes of excavated objects by trying to rebuild the original from the fragments collected, draw, record, and analyze data. 

• Archaeological Excavation and Technical Relief: Collecting samples after removing the earth from them with specialized tools and taking the earth away by wheelbarrow. Drawing of plans, sections, etc.
• Recording and Analysis: Cleaning, marking, listing, drawing, and cataloging mobile artifacts. Geological analysis of stone building material.
• Conservation and Restoration: Pottery, reconstruction of shapes, drawing. Wall and pavement decoration, drawing, and preliminary conservation operations.
• Cultural Dissemination: Demonstration of the archaeological activity on-site to the general public. Contribution to periodical reports, both in print and on the website.
• Active and Passive Protection: Temporary protection of site; housing of artifacts; planning of definitive protection of the site.

Unearthing Ancient History in Tuscany

Accommodations and Food

* Please note that not every expedition has couples or single accommodations available. Please call or email Earthwatch to check availability before reserving your space(s) on the team.

Teams will stay at the Populonia Stazione Resort. The accommodations feature modern furnishings, television, single beds, and gas heat. Each apartment has a small kitchen with a stove, dishwasher, and fridge. Apartments vary in size according to team size. 

SLEEPING

Same gender rooms are assigned with two to three volunteers per room. Single rooms* and couple rooms are subject to availability and will depend on numbers and the gender makeup of the team. Please request this when booking and note it on your volunteer forms. 

Towels and bed linens are provided. If you are particularly susceptible to feeling chilly during the night, bring warm pajamas and/or a light sleeping bag.

*Single rooms can be guaranteed for the additional cost of €400 per week, payable to research staff upon arrival. If interested, you must inform Earthwatch of this request at least 45 days before the start of your team.

* Earthwatch will honor each person’s assertion of gender identity respectfully and without judgment. For both teen and adult teams, where logistics dictate single-sex accommodations or other facilities, participant placements will be made in accordance with the gender identity the participant specified on their Earthwatch Participant form and/or preferences indicated in discussions with Earthwatch.

BATHROOMS

Participants will be assigned a private bathroom per room, with hot showers and flush toilets. 

ELECTRICITY

You are welcome to bring electrical equipment. Electrical outlets are 220 Volts, 50 Hz, standard European plug.

PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS

Wireless Internet is available at the resort courtyard and restaurant but is less reliable in individual rooms. Computers/tablets aren’t available, so you must bring your own electronic devices. If you wish to call home, a public telephone box is available, and if you inform the staff at the start of the project, they can take you to purchase an international calling card. 

Please note: Earthwatch encourages volunteers to minimize outgoing calls and immerse themselves in the experience; likewise, family and friends should restrict calls to urgent messages only. Emergency communications will be prioritized.

FOOD AND WATER

You’ll enjoy typical Italian-style cuisine on this expedition. You’ll help yourself to breakfast at the accommodations in the morning from a selection of the foods listed below, which may vary slightly from day to day.

Whenever possible, lunch will be enjoyed in the field as a packed lunch, in addition to some mid-day refreshments.

There is drinking water available on-site at the accommodations. There will also be juice, tea, and coffee at the accommodations.

Dinner will be at the resort restaurant and is eaten later in the evening in Italy (between 8–9:00 p.m.); there will be biscuits and fruit available to snack on, but if you wish to have more snacks when you return from the field then you will need to bring some or purchase them from the small supermarket.

TYPICAL MEALS

The following are examples of foods you may find in the field. Variety depends on availability. We appreciate your flexibility.

• Breakfast: Yogurt, fruit, cereals, bread, sweet snacks, biscuits, croissants, tea, coffee, and juice
• Lunch: Rice or pasta dishes, sandwiches, and fruit
• Dinner: Varieties of meat, fish, pizza, pasta, with vegetables and salad accompaniments and dessert
• Snacks: Biscuits/cookies, fruit
• Beverages: Water, coffee, tea, juices

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS

Please alert Earthwatch to any special dietary requirements (e.g., diabetes, lactose intolerance, nut or other food allergies, vegetarian or vegan diets) as soon as possible and note them in the space on your volunteer forms.

Accommodating special diets is not guaranteed and can be very difficult due to the availability of food, the location of field sites, and other local conditions.

Unearthing Ancient History in Tuscany

Essential Eligibility Requirements

Note: Excavation requires constant hard work; participants may find this very strenuous. We strongly recommend that you undertake some training (walking, carrying, bending) to strengthen your fitness level before joining the project.

All participants must be able to:

• Enjoy being outdoors all day; maintain a good team attitude in all types of weather and the potential presence of insects.
• Tolerate temperatures listed above and often hot and humid conditions; shade is provided, but the sun and humidity cannot be avoided entirely.
• Kneel, sit, or get low enough to the ground to carry out excavation activities comfortably for 2 to 5 hours per day.
• Regularly get oneself up and down from the ground during excavation tasks for 2 to 5 hours a day, which can potentially cause strain on the back and knees. If required, there will be the opportunity to work from chairs during pottery lab activities.
• Traverse over rough, uneven terrain (often wet and slippery), low-lying walls, and steep slopes with no handrails while on the excavation sites.
• Tolerate occasionally dusty conditions while working, which, combined with a breeze, can sometimes be uncomfortable for contact lens wearers. Wearing glasses may be more comfortable.
• Traverse over uneven and often steep terrain for up to three hours if partaking in optional recreational walking trips to see surrounding areas.
• Get yourself up and down from a vehicle and ride, seated with a seatbelt fastened, for approximately two hours.
• Follow verbal and/or visual instructions independently or with the assistance of a companion.
• Take an active role in one’s safety by recognizing and avoiding hazards if and when they arise (including, but not limited to, those described in Earthwatch materials and safety briefings). Comply with project staff instructions and recommended safety measures at all times.
• Effectively communicate to the staff if they are experiencing distress or need assistance.
• Be able to get along with a variety of people from different backgrounds, often in close proximity, for the duration of the team.
• Be comfortable being surrounded by a language and/or culture that is not your own.
• Take an active role in your safety by recognizing and avoiding hazards if and when they arise (including, but not limited to, those described in Earthwatch materials and safety briefings). Comply with project staff instructions and recommended safety measures at all times.

Unearthing Ancient History in Tuscany

Project Risks and Precautions

TRANSPORTATION

As in any country, transport is a risk. All minibusses and cars will be fitted with seatbelts, and all passengers must wear them whenever the vehicle is in motion. Only experienced drivers will drive vehicles. Each vehicle will contain a first-aid kit and a cell phone for communication.

Participants may not drive, even their own cars, during the project.

WALKING/ TERRAIN

The terrain may be rough and can become very slippery when wet. Appropriate footwear with good traction and steel-capped toes (required by the Italian government) must be worn. Do not run on-site, and be aware of where you walk. Walkways must remain clear; do not leave tools, equipment, or personal bags in places that could create a hazard for others. You may not park wheelbarrows, walk close to, or sit on the edge of the work pits. Metal grid pegs with orange caps mark areas on the site where you may not walk. During site planning, we stretch a red and white string between the grid pegs at approximately three to six inches (eight to 15 centimeters) above the ground, which creates a trip hazard you should be cautious of. You will not be permitted on site without staff. The terrain of the villa research site is rough and uneven and presents a significant risk of tripping and falling if care is not taken.

STRAINS AND SPRAINS

Wear sturdy footwear, long socks, and trousers on site. Also, pay attention to your abilities and work within your limits. You may want to use gloves and kneeling pads. We will instruct you not to overfill buckets and wheelbarrows and teach you the correct procedures for lifting heavy objects. Ask for assistance when moving large items. When lifting rocks or stone blocks, take care not to trap your fingers. We will instruct you to wear a helmet if you’re working underground at the site.

ANIMALS / PLANTS

• Scratches from Vegetation. Again, watch where you walk and wear long-sleeved tops, long pants, and gloves to avoid scratches. You must have an up-to-date tetanus vaccination.
• Mosquito Bites. There are many mosquitos around the site and accommodations; with them, there is the danger of infection and disease. Bring mosquito repellent and wear long pants and sleeves to avoid bites, especially in the evening.
• Wildlife. Do not approach harmful animals; let field staff remove them safely. Although vipers are rarely seen, do not go off paths into the surrounding woods. Because of spiders and scorpions, take care when moving stones, choosing a place to sit on the ground, and putting on shoes. Some hairy caterpillars on the surrounding pine trees may cause a rash.
• Hay fever. Plants at the sites may cause hay fever in those susceptible to it. Bring any appropriate medication and tissues to the field.

CLIMATE / WEATHER

• Sun exposure Please wear high SPF sunscreen, a sun hat, and lightweight long-sleeved clothing, and rehydrate regularly with water, which is freely available on site. Some shade will be available on site.

PROJECT TASKS/ EQUIPMENT

• Eye irritation/ infection. Excavation will stir up dust and grit, which can cause infection or discomfort to the eyes. Although everyday eyewear provides some protection, safety glasses will be available, and instructions will be given regarding keeping eyes safe.
• Injury from tools. Volunteers will be instructed in the correct use and safe storage of tools. Staff will supervise the use of tools, and volunteers must listen carefully to instructions.
• Damage to the excavation site. We will demonstrate the correct excavation methodology and remind you not to walk, sit, or leave belongings on the ancient walls and artifacts, which could cause long-term damage. Always listen carefully to instructions.

PERSONAL SECURITY

• Theft. Petty crime is common in cities. Keep your wallet, purse, valuables, passport, and other travel documentation secure while passing through stations and airports. There is a small risk of petty theft on-site, as members of the public occasionally pass through, so we will ask you to store your bags in a safe place. Keep valuables locked up or in your possession at all times. The accommodations will be locked when we leave for the day.

SWIMMING

We will brief you on the risks of swimming in the sea, and only confident swimmers should enter the water. You may not swim in bad weather. Staff will assess and approve all swimming sites daily. Swimming alone or after drinking is not permitted.

DISTANCE FROM MEDICAL CARE

20 minutes by car 

COVID-19 DISEASE RISKS 

COVID-19 remains an evolving risk to communities and individuals around the world.

Earthwatch strongly encourages you to stay up to date with your vaccinations, including receiving booster doses if available and to continue to take steps to limit your exposure before your program, such as wearing a mask during travel and frequently washing your hands. Persons with a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 should consult with their healthcare provider before participation. 

If you, or another person on site, display symptoms of illness or test positive for COVID-19, you may be required to wear a mask, test for COVID-19, seek medical advice, isolate/quarantine on- or off-site, cease or limit participation in program activities, and/or take other precautions. If local conditions or recommendations from authorities change, additional requirements may be implemented.   

If you must isolate or depart from a program due to COVID-19 or other illness, you will not be entitled to a refund of the contribution for the program, nor any expenses resulting from your participation in the program or a disruption of your travel plans. We strongly encourage you to purchase travel insurance that will cover this eventuality.

Unearthing Ancient History in Tuscany

Resources

BOOKS

• S. Monti, C. Megale, Quanto l’archeologia diventa un’opportunità per disegnare il futuro / How much archaeology becomes an opportunity to design the future https://riviste.unimc.it/index.php/cap-cult/article/view/2196 
• C. Baione, Communicating archaeology to everyone, https://www.tafterjournal.it/2021/03/16/communicating-archaeology-to-everyone-the-poggio-del-molino-archaeological-site-virtual-approach/
• C. Megale, A. Camilli, E. Sorge (a cura di), Archeologia in cantiere. Nuove scoperte dagli scavi di Baratti, Pisa 2014. Online https://unifi.academia.edu/CarolinaMegale.
• Green, Kevin. Archaeology: An Introduction. London: Routledge, 2010.
• Renfrew, C and P. Bahn, Archaeology: Theories, Methods, Practice. London: Thames & Hudson, 2006.
• Megale, Carolina. Fare l’Archeologo per Passione e per Mestiere. Livorno: Books & Company, 2009. Online https://unifi.academia.edu/CarolinaMegale.

FIELD GUIDES

• C. Megale, S. Genovesi, The Roman Settlement of Poggio del Molino: the Late Republican Fort and the Early Imperial Farm of Poggio del Molino. Preliminary data, FOLD&R, n. 347, 2016.
• C. Megale, S. Genovesi, Economy and production in Late Republican Settlement of Poggio del Molino, Populonia, in L. Bombardieri, A. D’Agostino, G. Guarducci, V. Orsi, S. Valentini (a cura di), Identity and Connectivity: Proceedings of the 16th Symposium on Mediterranean Archaeology, Florence, Italy, 1–3 March 2012, BAR International Series 2581 (II), 2013, pp. 901-908.
• Archaeological Guide to the Province of Livorno and the Tuscan Archipelago. Florence: Nardini Editore, 2003.
• Semplici, Andrea. Baratti and Populonia Archaeological Park. Florence: Fotolito Toscana, 2008. Note: This guide is only available on-site; Carolina has a copy.

FILMS/DOCUMENTARY

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OrFliPGCNFQ 
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxHrkthprUQ&t=138s 
• Roman Archeology: Myth and Reality—Part One: Rome and the Etruscans Between minutes 15 and 20 of this documentary on archeology, you’ll see footage of the project site and Carolina discussing it.

PROJECT-RELATED WEBSITE

• www.pastexperience.it
• www.archeodig.com
• Insight into Italy

Unearthing Ancient History in Tuscany